Atlanta pastor on the importance of HIV testing, treatment and destigmatization

A mobile testing unit sets up in a parking lot in South DeKalb County. People can go into the van, which travels to areas throughout metro Atlanta, and get a free HIV test in about a minute.

Elly Yu / WABE

Rev. Monte Norwood says “where there is hope, there is health.”

Norwood, who serves as the senior pastor at for Bible Way Ministries International, says he openly talks with his congregation about the importance of getting tested for HIV.

On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look” for National HIV Testing Day, Norwood talked about how the faith community is helping to destigmatize the virus and elevate awareness and support.

“One of my primary tasks as a pastor and a member of the faith community is to help distill stigma by bringing attention to HIV and AIDS, that it’s here — it’s a part of who we are,” explained Norwood.